Bisphosphonates Being Tested on Astronauts Aboard International Space Station
On Earth people continue to file Fosamax lawsuits over the drug’s alleged tendency to cause bone injuries, but in outer space research is being conducted to determine whether bisphosphonates effectively limit the bone loss experienced by astronauts.
Bone Loss Accelerated in Zero Gravity
The gravity on Earth places a load on bones that helps maintain their mass, but in space, lack of gravity causes bones to lose calcium, which research shows can cause a 1.5 percent per month reduction in femur bone content. Astronauts operating in zero-gravity conditions are therefore at heightened risk for bone fractures and some may even face early onset osteoporosis and the development of renal stones.
To test whether bisphosphonates reduce the loss of bone mass in space, two types of the drugs—alendronate (Fosamax) and zolendronic acid—are being administered to astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Alendronate subjects are taking a weekly oral dose of 70 mg, while the zolendronic subjects received a single, 4 mg intravenous dose roughly 45 days before the flight. On November 20, the 23rd weekly alendronate dose was administered.
Fosamax Lawsuit Filings Exceed 1,000
It remains to be seen whether bisphosphonates will reduce astronauts’ bone loss. Among osteoporosis patients, drugs such as Fosamax are undoubtedly effective at doing so. Their efficacy, however, has been offset by research that links them to injuries that include osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) and abnormal femur fractures.
Patients allegedly suffering harm after taking Fosamax have responded by taking legal action against manufacturer Merck & Co. To date, more than 1,000 Fosamax lawsuits have been filed, the majority of which are contained in two separate federal mass tort proceedings.
Contact RLG for a Free Fosamax Lawsuit Evaluation
If you suspect that your abnormal femur fracture was caused by Fosamax, you may be eligible for compensation through a lawsuit against Merck. The manufacturer, however, is not simply going to award a Fosamax lawsuit settlement for your pain, suffering, and financial losses. To get what you deserve, you’ll need an experienced attorney in your corner.
The lawyers of RLG help injured consumers obtain financial reparations for injuries caused by no fault of their own. To find out whether you qualify for a Fosamax lawsuit, fill out this form or call 1-877-332-2347. A member of our firm will be in touch shortly.
Learn more by downloading RLG’s Free Brochure or viewing our Fosamax Information Graphic.
